Head Start

It is vital for children to have a strong academic foundation. A child’s first classroom experience should be a positive time that builds self-esteem and confidence as he/she continues to learn and grow. Sometimes children need extra help to keep up with the initial challenges of a classroom environment. The Head Start program is based on the belief that children learn best through a combination of support services. This pre-school program provides parental, educational, medical, nutritional, psychological and social support to help children consistently succeed.

What is Head Start?

A free child and family development program

A half- or full-day classroom experience

A solid curriculum to establish school readiness skills

What does Head Start offer?

Individualized educational experiences

A daily breakfast/snack and lunch

Health services and screenings

Parent involvement/volunteer participation

Family resources

Age Requirement: 3- or 4-years-old on or before September 1, the year of enrollment.

Who is Eligible: Families whose income meets federal agency guidelines and who are residents of the City of Milwaukee.

Health Requirements — All children are required to have a complete physical exam (which must include current blood testing for lead poisoning and anemia) and dental exam for Head Start. The physical exam form and dental exam form can be faxed to the Head Start Office at (414) 777-7865 or mailed to the Head Start Office at 5225 W. Vliet St., Room 9, Milwaukee, WI 53208.

Length of Program: Approximately three hours per day (morning or afternoon sessions) with some full-day options for three-year-olds. Four-year-olds attend school all day. Check for specific program lengths with the Head Start office at (414) 777-7850.

When to Apply: Applications are accepted throughout the year. Placement occurs after the Head Start Enrollment Specialist completes the application process. Applications can only be completed by a representative from the Head Start program. Please stop by the Head Start office at 5225 W. Vliet St., Room 9, Milwaukee, WI 53208 or call (414) 777-7850 for more information about the enrollment process.

Remember to Bring:

Proof of income (12 months prior total household income). Proof of income can include:

W2 tax form or 1040 tax form – Foster Care/Kinship placement letter

Recent check stub – Supplemental Social Security (SSI)

W-2 Public Assistance (TANF)

Total household income includes the income of your spouse and the child’s parental guardians residing in the household and related by blood, marriage or adoption. Total income includes any child support or maintenance payments received.

Certified copy of the child’s original birth certificate.

Proof of address (proving residency in the City of Milwaukee)

Immunization record

For program locations or more information, please call (414) 777-7850.

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